MISSISSAUGA, ON – The Canadian Golf Superintendents Association (CGSA) is proud to announce Jerry Sihota as the recipient of the 2025 CGSA John B. Steel Distinguished Service Award.

The John B. Steel Distinguished Service Award honours the CGSA’s first President, who was also the first superintendent inducted into the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame. Presented annually, this prestigious award recognizes an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to the advancement of the golf course superintendent profession. The recipient receives an original soapstone carving designed by Bill Fach, retired Master Superintendent and past CGSA President.

Jerry and his wife, Barb, will receive All-Access registration to The Canadian Golf Course Management Conference, taking place February 24–26, 2026, at the TELUS Convention Centre in Calgary, Alberta. This includes four nights’ accommodation at the Hyatt Regency Calgary, along with transportation costs. Jerry will be formally presented with the John B. Steel Distinguished Service Award during the Awards Ceremony on Tuesday, February 24, 2026.

A CGSA member from 1993 until his retirement in 2024, Jerry served as Western Canada Sales Manager, Professional Turf, with Nutrien Solutions–Evergro for 38 years. He also contributed several years of service on the Board of the Western Canada Turf Association (WCTA).

Throughout his career, Jerry redefined the role of a supplier—going far beyond sales. He walked golf courses, solved problems, and consistently went the extra mile, becoming a trusted partner and invaluable resource to every superintendent he worked with. His dedication to the profession uplifted colleagues, supported career development, and strengthened the golf course superintendent community. Jerry’s legacy of professionalism, genuine care, and lasting relationships will continue to inspire future generations.

Jerry exemplifies the core values held in the highest regard by the industry and embodies the qualities expected of a John B. Steel Distinguished Service Award recipient. Given the significance of this honour, only the most distinguished individuals are considered, and every letter of support submitted with his nomination wholeheartedly endorsed Jerry for this award.

“This is truly an honour. I would like to thank the CGSA for selecting me as a recipient of the John B. Steel Distinguished Service Award.

Throughout my career in the golf industry, I have been fortunate to meet and work with so many great people across Canada. I am very grateful for the friendships I have made and cherished over 37 years. The annual CGSA conference has allowed me to develop and maintain many of those relationships.

The CGSA has played an important role in bringing people together and strengthening our profession. Thank you for this recognition and for everything the CGSA does to support golf course superintendents and the golf industry across Canada.”

— Jerry Sihota, Retired

On behalf of the CGSA Board of Directors, staff, and members, we extend our warmest congratulations to Jerry Sihota on this well-deserved recognition. Jerry will be honoured at the CGSA Awards Luncheon on Tuesday, February 24, 2026. For more information, please click here.

Contact:

Kathryn Wood, CMP
Chief Executive Officer
Canadian Golf Superintendents Association
e: kwood@golfsupers.com

About the Canadian Golf Superintendents Association (CGSA)
The CGSA represents golf course superintendents, assistant superintendents, equipment technicians, and other professionals involved in golf course management across Canada. Founded in 1966, CGSA has more than 1,100 members and is celebrating 60 years of leadership, education, and connection. CGSA’s mission is to support its members in the art and science of golf course management and to serve as the leading authority and advocate for golf course superintendents in Canada.

For more information, visit www.golfsupers.com.

For a copy of the announcement in PDF format, please click here.